Inflatable apparatus for striking and propelling an object

ABSTRACT

An inflatable apparatus for striking and propelling an object when affixed to a limb of a body preferably includes first and second oppositely facing walls, the first wall defining a striking surface for striking and propelling the object therefrom; and one or more sidewalls extending between and connecting the first and second oppositely facing walls, wherein the one or more sidewalls define an opening configured to permit passage of the limb from an exterior of the apparatus into an interstitial space of the apparatus for affixing the apparatus on the limb. The inflatable apparatus further includes one or more fluid-impermeable, expandable chambers in fluid communication with one or more ports whereby fluid introduced through the one or more ports enters into the one or more chambers for expanding the one or more chambers and tensioning the first wall defining the striking surface. A paddle-type game preferably uses such inflatable apparatus.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of,and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to, U.S. provisional patentapplication 63/160,791, filed Mar. 13, 2021, which provisional patentapplication is incorporated by reference herein. The disclosure of theprovisional patent application is set forth in the appendix,incorporated hereby by reference.

COPYRIGHT STATEMENT

Any new and original work of authorship in this document is subject tocopyright protection under the copyright laws of the United States andother countries. Reproduction by anyone of this document as it appearsin official governmental records is permitted, but otherwise all othercopyright rights whatsoever are reserved.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to an inflatable paddle and, inparticular, to an inflatable paddle for use in a game system wherein theinflatable paddle is detachably affixed to at least one region of a limbon the human body for striking and propelling a ball during game play.

Paddle-type games are well known with the most popular being tabletennis also known as ping-pong. Another paddle-type game is paddle ball.It is believed that a need exists for a different and fun way to playthe game of table tennis and paddle ball. Paddles in accordance with oneor more aspects and features of the invention when used in place ofconventional paddles in table tennis are believed to represent such animprovement.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention includes many aspects and features. Moreover, while manyaspects and features relate to, and are described in, the context ofpaddle-type game systems such as table tennis, the invention is notlimited to use only in such games, as will become apparent from thefollowing summaries and detailed descriptions of aspects, features, andone or more embodiments of the invention. For example, it is believedthat paddles of the invention further may be used in other types ofgames including, for example, paddle ball, racquetball, and tennis.

In an aspect, an inflatable apparatus for striking and propelling anobject when affixed to a limb of a body comprises: first and secondoppositely facing walls, the first wall defining a striking surface forstriking and propelling the object therefrom; and one or more sidewallsextending between and connecting the first and second oppositely facingwalls, wherein the one or more sidewalls define an opening configured topermit passage of the limb from an exterior of the apparatus into aninterstitial space of the apparatus for affixing the apparatus on thelimb. The inflatable apparatus further comprises one or morefluid-impermeable, expandable chambers in fluid communication with oneor more ports whereby fluid introduced through the one or more portsenters into the one or more chambers for expanding the one or morechambers and tensioning the first wall defining the striking surface.

In another aspect, an inflatable apparatus for striking an object whenaffixed to a limb of a body comprises: first and second oppositelyfacing walls, each wall defining a striking surface for striking andpropelling the object therefrom; and one or more sidewalls extendingbetween and connecting the first and second oppositely facing walls,wherein the one or more sidewalls define an opening configured to permitpassage of the limb from an exterior of the apparatus into aninterstitial space of the apparatus for affixing the apparatus on thelimb. The inflatable apparatus further comprises one or morefluid-impermeable, expandable chambers in fluid communication with oneor more ports whereby fluid introduced through the one or more portsenters into the one or more chambers for expanding the one or morechambers and tensioning the first and second walls defining the strikingsurfaces.

In another aspect, an inflatable apparatus for striking an object whenaffixed to a limb of a body, comprises: first and second oppositelyfacing walls, each wall having an oval perimeter and defining a strikingsurface for striking and propelling the object therefrom; and a singlesidewall extending between and connecting the first and secondoppositely facing walls, wherein the single sidewall defines an openingconfigured to permit passage of the limb from an exterior of theapparatus into an interstitial space of the apparatus for affixing theapparatus on the limb. The inflatable apparatus further comprises one ormore fluid-impermeable, expandable chambers in fluid communication withone or more ports whereby fluid introduced through the one or more portsenters into the one or more chambers for expanding the one or morechambers and tensioning the first and second walls defining the strikingsurfaces.

In a feature, the first and second oppositely facing walls have an ovalperimeter.

In a feature, the first and second oppositely facing walls have acircular perimeter.

In a feature, the first wall is defined by one or more walls of the oneor more chambers.

In a feature, the first and second oppositely facing walls are definedby one or more walls of the one or more chambers.

In a feature, the one or more sidewalls are defined by one or more wallsof the one or more chambers.

In a feature, the apparatus further comprises an outer casingencapsulating the one or more chambers, the outer casing defining thefirst and second oppositely facing walls and the one or more sidewalls.The outer casing is or may not be fluid-impermeable.

In a feature, the apparatus further comprises an envelope extending fromthe opening in the one or more sidewalls into the interstitial space,the envelope being shaped and dimensioned to accommodate in a snugengagement the limb of the body to which the apparatus is affixed.

In a feature, the one or more ports each has a cap or valve.

In a feature, the apparatus further comprises a strap configured toextend across the opening of the envelope for fastening the inflatableapparatus to a limb.

In a feature, the apparatus is configured to permit passage of the limbcompletely through the interstitial space back out to the exterior ofthe apparatus through another opening for affixing the apparatus on thelimb.

In another aspect, an inflatable apparatus for striking an object whenaffixed to a limb of a body comprises: first and second oppositelyfacing walls, each wall having an oval perimeter and defining a strikingsurface for striking and propelling the object therefrom; and a singlesidewall extending between and connecting the first and secondoppositely facing walls, wherein the single sidewall defines an openingconfigured to permit passage of the limb from an exterior of theapparatus into an interstitial space of the apparatus for affixing theapparatus on the limb. The inflatable apparatus further comprises asingle air-impermeable, expandable chamber in fluid communication with aport whereby air introduced through the port enters into the chamber forinflating the chamber and tensioning the first and second walls definingthe striking surfaces.

In another aspect, an apparatus for playing a paddle-type game systemcomprises one or more inflatable apparatus in accordance with anyforegoing aspect and further comprises a ball as the object.

In another aspect, a method for playing a game includes striking andpropelling an object from an inflatable apparatus affixed to a limb of abody, the apparatus comprising first and second oppositely facing walls,with the first wall defining a striking surface for striking andpropelling the object therefrom, and one or more sidewalls extendingbetween and connecting the first and second oppositely facing walls.This method comprises the steps of: inflating the apparatus by pumping afluid through one or more ports that are in fluid communication with oneor more fluid-impermeable, expandable chambers such that the fluidintroduced through the one or more ports enters into the one or morechambers causing the one or more chambers to expand and tension thefirst wall defining the striking surface; inserting a limb into anopening defined by the one or more sidewalls into an interstitial spaceof the apparatus to affix the apparatus on the limb in a snugengagement; and propelling the object by moving the limb so as toforcibly strike the object with the striking surface of the first wallof the inflatable apparatus.

In a feature, this method further comprises propelling the object bymoving the limb so as to forcibly strike the object with the second wallof the inflatable apparatus, the second wall defining a further strikingsurface and the expanded chambers further tensioning the second wall.

In a feature, the fluid comprises air.

In a feature, the fluid comprises a liquid.

In a feature, the fluid comprises water.

In a feature, the fluid comprises a gel.

In a feature, the fluid comprises an inert gas.

In a feature, the object comprises a paddle ball.

In a feature, the object comprises a racquetball.

In a feature, the object comprises a tennis ball.

In a feature, the object comprises a ping-pong ball.

In a feature, the object comprises a wiffle ball.

In a feature, the object comprises a plastic ball.

In a feature, the limb comprises a hand.

In a feature, the limb comprises an elbow.

In a feature, the limb comprises a foot.

In a feature, the limb comprises a knee.

In a feature, the limb comprises an arm.

In a feature, the limb comprises a leg.

In a feature, the limb comprises a shoulder.

In another aspect, a method for playing a game includes striking andpropelling an object from an inflatable apparatus affixed to a limb of abody, the apparatus comprising means for affixing the apparatus to thelimb of the body, and means for tensioning a surface of the inflatableapparatus for striking and propelling the object therefrom. The methodcomprises the steps of affixing the apparatus to the limb of the bodyand propelling the object by moving the limb so as to forcibly strikethe object with the striking surface.

Additional aspects and features are disclosed in the drawings and in theappendix containing the disclosure of the incorporated provisionalpatent application from which priority is claimed.

In addition to the aforementioned aspects and features of the invention,it should be noted that the invention further encompasses the variouslogical combinations and subcombinations of such aspects and features.Thus, for example, claims in this or a divisional or continuing patentapplication or applications may be separately directed to any aspect,feature, or embodiment disclosed herein, or combination thereof, withoutrequiring any other aspect, feature, or embodiment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more preferred embodiments of the invention now will be describedin detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first wall defining a striking surfaceof a preferred embodiment of an inflatable apparatus in accordance withone or more aspects and features of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second oppositely facing wall defininga striking surface of the inflatable apparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the inflatable apparatus of FIG. 1affixed to a hand and ready to strike an object.

FIG. 4 is another perspective view of the inflatable apparatus of FIG. 1affixed to a hand and ready to strike an object.

FIG. 5 is another perspective view of the inflatable apparatus of FIG.4.

FIG. 6 is another perspective view of the inflatable apparatus of FIG.4.

FIG. 7 is a front elevational view of another preferred embodiment of aninflatable apparatus in accordance with one or more aspects and featuresof the invention.

FIG. 8 is a back elevational view of the inflatable apparatus of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the inflatable apparatus of FIG. 7.

FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of the inflatable apparatus of FIG.7.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the inflatable apparatus of FIG. 7.

FIG. 12 is a front elevational view of the inflatable apparatus of FIG.7 affixed on the end of an arm.

FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of the inflatable apparatus of FIG. 7affixed on the end of an arm.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another preferred embodiment of aninflatable apparatus in accordance with one or more aspects and featuresof the invention.

FIG. 15 is a front elevational view of the inflatable apparatus of FIG.14 affixed on an elbow of an arm.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a game being played using theinflatable apparatus of FIGS. 7-11.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of another inflatable apparatus inaccordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention, inwhich the opening is defined in one of two oppositely facing walls andnot in the sidewall.

FIG. 18 is a side elevational view of the inflatable apparatus of FIG.17 affixed on the end of a leg.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one havingordinary skill in the relevant art (“Ordinary Artisan”) that theinvention has broad utility and application. Furthermore, any embodimentdiscussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be partof a best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention. Otherembodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposesin providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention.Furthermore, an embodiment of the invention may incorporate only one ora plurality of the aspects of the invention disclosed herein; only oneor a plurality of the features disclosed herein; or combination thereof.As such, many embodiments are implicitly disclosed herein and fallwithin the scope of what is regarded as the invention.

Accordingly, while the invention is described herein in detail inrelation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that thisdisclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the invention and is mademerely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure ofthe invention. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodimentsis not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patentprotection afforded the invention in any claim of a patent issuing herefrom, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalentsthereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection affordedthe invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitation foundherein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.

Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps ofvarious processes or methods that are described herein are illustrativeand not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, althoughsteps of various processes or methods may be shown and described asbeing in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processesor methods are not limited to being carried out in any particularsequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps insuch processes or methods generally may be carried out in variousdifferent sequences and orders while still falling within the scope ofthe invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patentprotection afforded the invention be defined by the issued claim(s)rather than the description set forth herein.

Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refersto that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand such term to meanbased on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that themeaning of a term used herein—as understood by the Ordinary Artisanbased on the contextual use of such term—differs in any way from anyparticular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that themeaning of the term as understood by the Ordinary Artisan shouldprevail.

With regard solely to construction of any claim with respect to theUnited States, no claim element is to be interpreted under 35 U.S.C.112(f) unless the explicit phrase “means for” or “step for” is actuallyused in such claim element, whereupon this statutory provision isintended to and should apply in the interpretation of such claimelement. With regard to any method claim including a condition precedentstep, such method requires the condition precedent to be met and thestep to be performed at least once but not necessarily every time duringperformance of the claimed method.

Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, “comprising”is open-ended insofar as that which follows such term is not exclusive.Additionally, “a” and “an” each generally denotes “at least one” butdoes not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictatesotherwise. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having an apple” is thesame as “a picnic basket comprising an apple” and “a picnic basketincluding an apple”, each of which identically describes “a picnicbasket having at least one apple” as well as “a picnic basket havingapples”; the picnic basket further may contain one or more other itemsbeside an apple. In contrast, reference to “a picnic basket having asingle apple” describes “a picnic basket having only one apple”; thepicnic basket further may contain one or more other items beside anapple. In contrast, “a picnic basket consisting of an apple” has only asingle item contained therein, i.e., one apple; the picnic basketcontains no other item.

When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one ofthe items” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Thus,reference to “a picnic basket having cheese or crackers” describes “apicnic basket having cheese without crackers”, “a picnic basket havingcrackers without cheese”, and “a picnic basket having both cheese andcrackers”; the picnic basket further may contain one or more other itemsbeside cheese and crackers.

When used herein to join a list of items, “and” denotes “all of theitems of the list”. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having cheeseand crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese, wherein thepicnic basket further has crackers”, as well as describes “a picnicbasket having crackers, wherein the picnic basket further has cheese”;the picnic basket further may contain one or more other items besidecheese and crackers.

The phrase “at least one” followed by a list of items joined by “and”denotes an item of the list but does not require every item of the list.Thus, “at least one of an apple and an orange” encompasses the followingmutually exclusive scenarios: there is an apple but no orange; there isan orange but no apple; and there is both an apple and an orange. Inthese scenarios if there is an apple, there may be more than one apple,and if there is an orange, there may be more than one orange. Moreover,the phrase “one or more” followed by a list of items joined by “and” isthe equivalent of “at least one” followed by the list of items joined by“and”.

Referring now to the drawings, one or more preferred embodiments of theinvention are next described. The following description of one or morepreferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no wayintended to limit the invention, its implementations, or uses.

Turning now to the drawings, a preferred embodiment of an inflatableapparatus 10 in accordance with one or more aspects and features of theinvention is shown in FIGS. 1-2. Specifically, FIG. 1 is a perspectiveview of the inflatable apparatus 10 wherein a first wall 12 defining astriking surface 14 is shown. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a secondoppositely facing wall 16 defining a second striking surface 18 of theinflatable apparatus 10. The striking surfaces 14,18 may or may not beidentical. As illustrated, each of the walls 12,16 has an oval and,preferably, circular perimeter. The inflatable apparatus 10 preferablyhas a generally flat surface for striking the ball or object; however,it is contemplated that in some embodiments the surface may be concaveor convex to accommodate a specific ball or object geometry.

A sidewall 20 extends between and connects the first and secondoppositely facing walls 12,16. Each of the sidewall 20 and twooppositely facing walls 12,16 preferably is defined by a sheet ofmaterial, such as a thin-walled polyvinyl chloride resin, a polyrubberized sheet, a latex sheet, silicone sheet, or a rubber sheet. Thesidewall 20 and two oppositely facing walls 14,18 preferably are securedtogether in an airtight manner such as by welding or bonding.

The sidewall 20 defines an opening 22 that is configured to permitpassage of a limb from an exterior of the apparatus into an interstitialspace 24 of the apparatus 10 for affixing the apparatus 10 on the limb.Exemplary interstitial spaces are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,755,820,which is incorporated herein by reference. Indeed, an open-endedinterstitial space is disclosed in FIG. 3 of the '820 Patent, and aclosed-ended interstitial space is disclosed in FIG. 6 of the '820Patent.

The apparatus 10 preferably may be affixed to a limb independent of theorientation of the striking surfaces 14,18, e.g., either strikingsurface may be oriented on the frontside or backside of a hand. Thisperhaps is illustrated best by comparing FIG. 3, wherein the strikingsurface 18 is seen oriented on the backside of the right hand, with FIG.5, wherein the striking surface 18 is seen oriented on the frontside ofthe right hand.

The sidewall 20 and oppositely facing walls 14,18 define afluid-impermeable, expandable chamber. The chamber is in fluidcommunication with a port 26 that is located on the sidewall 20; theport preferably is not located on a wall defining a striking surface.The port 26 preferably includes a cap and valve. Fluid introducedthrough the port 26 enters into the chamber for expanding the chamberand tensioning the first and second walls 12,16 defining the strikingsurfaces 14,18. While a single airtight chamber is illustrated inconnection with the inflatable apparatus 10, other preferred embodimentscomprise multiple chambers that are interconnected and in fluidcommunication with one another, as disclosed and taught by U.S. Pat. No.3,217,333, which is incorporated herein by reference. In use, a limb isinserted into through the opening 22 into the interstitial space 24whereby the inflatable apparatus 10 is affixed to the limb. Theinterstitial space 24 is shaped to enable the region of the limb toeasily, yet securely, be introduced therein. This is best showncollective in FIGS. 3 through 6, wherein FIG. 3 is a perspective view ofthe inflatable apparatus 10 affixed to a hand and ready to strike anobject; FIG. 4 is another perspective view of the inflatable apparatus10 affixed to a hand and ready to strike an object; FIG. 5 yet anotherperspective view of the inflatable apparatus 10 affixed to a hand andready to strike an object; and FIG. 6 is another perspective view of theinflatable apparatus 10 affixed to a hand and ready to strike an object.In alternative embodiments, the limb is inserted through theinterstitial space and through a second opening, whereby the apparatusmay be affixed to a limb with the terminal part of the limb beinglocated on the exterior of the apparatus.

Another preferred embodiment of an inflatable apparatus 30 in accordancewith one or more aspects and features of the invention is now discussedwith reference to FIGS. 7-11. In particular, FIG. 7 is a frontelevational view of the inflatable apparatus 30; FIG. 8 is a backelevational view of the inflatable apparatus 30; FIG. 9 is a top planview of the inflatable apparatus 30; FIG. 10 is a side elevational viewof the inflatable apparatus 30; and FIG. 11 is a perspective view of theinflatable apparatus 30. Additionally, FIG. 12 is a front elevationalview of the inflatable apparatus 30 affixed on an end of an arm; andFIG. 13 is a side elevational view of the inflatable apparatus 30affixed on the end of the arm.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another inflatable apparatus 40 inaccordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention; andFIG. 15 is a front elevational view of the inflatable apparatus 40affixed on an elbow of an arm extending through the inflatable apparatus40,

A paddle-type game preferably includes and is played using one or moreinflatable apparatus of the invention to propel an object such as a ballby striking the ball with a striking surface. A method for playing sucha game includes striking and propelling the object from an inflatableapparatus affixed to a limb of a body, including the steps of inflatingthe apparatus by pumping a fluid through one or more ports that are influid communication with one or more fluid-impermeable, expandablechambers such that the fluid introduced through the one or more portsenters into the one or more chambers causing the one or more chambers toexpand and tension the first wall defining the striking surface;inserting a limb into an opening defined by the one or more sidewallsinto an interstitial space of the apparatus to affix the apparatus onthe limb in a snug engagement; and propelling the object by moving thelimb so as to forcibly strike the object with the striking surface ofthe first wall of the inflatable apparatus. The fluid, such aspressurized air, preferably is introduced through the air inlets toinflate the chambers at a predetermined pressure. The method furthercomprises propelling the object by moving the limb so as to forciblystrike the object with the second wall of the inflatable apparatus, thesecond wall defining a further striking surface and the expandedchambers further tensioning the second wall. Also, if the fluid is air,then each chamber may be pressurized to a desired air pressure,depending on the type of paddle game being played, and the comfort ofthe player. For example, a high-pressure air can be introduced into thechamber to enable a ball to be propelled a further distance. FIG. 16 isa perspective view of a game being played using, for example, theinflatable apparatus 30.

Based on the foregoing description, it will be readily understood bythose persons skilled in the art that the invention has broad utilityand application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the invention otherthan those specifically described herein, as well as many variations,modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from orreasonably suggested by the invention and the foregoing descriptionsthereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the invention.

For example, an apparatus may comprise an outer casing or shellencapsulating the one or more chambers and defining the first and secondoppositely facing walls and the one or more sidewalls, which outercasing may or may not be air impermeable. The outer casing may be madefrom the same or different material than the oppositely facing walls andone or more sidewalls. The outer casing may be made from a thin-walledpolyvinyl chloride resin, a poly rubberized sheet, a latex bladder,silicone, leather, rubber, and an air impermeable sheet. Furthermore,the outer casing may define a rounded edge, a squared edge, ageometrically shaped edge, or an irregularly shaped edge.

The apparatus further may comprise an envelope that extends from theopening in the sidewall and that lines the interstitial space, whichenvelope may or may not be air impermeable. The envelope preferably isshaped and dimensioned to accommodate in a snug engagement the limb ofthe body to which the apparatus is intended to be affixed. The envelopemay have a generally square or rectangular shape; a generally elongatedshape; or a generally L-shaped or U-shaped configuration.

Additionally, the apparatus further may comprise a strap that isconfigured to extend across the opening for fastening the inflatableapparatus to a limb.

To summarize in conclusion, the inflatable apparatus of the inventionpreferably is shaped and dimensioned to enable the region of the limb toeasily, yet securely, be introduced therein. Once the region of the limbis securely affixed inside the inflatable apparatus, a player can playan eclectic assortment of paddle-type games using the inflatableapparatus in lieu of the standard rigid wooden or metal or fiberglasspaddles/racquets that are known in the art. Indeed, the inflatableapparatus is considered a paddle insofar as it may be used as asubstitute for a traditional paddle and the striking surfaces of theoppositely facing walls correspond to a blade of a traditional paddle.

In some embodiments the inflatable apparatus comprise one or morechambers that are durable, resilient, and support internalpressurization. The chambers are in fluid communication with a port oran air inlet, so as to be inflated at a desired pressure. The chambersmay be air impermeable. In some embodiments, only one chamber is used.In other embodiments, a plurality of chambers are used. The outer casingalso may have a rounded edge, a squared edge, a geometrically shapededge, or an irregularly shaped edge.

In some embodiments, an envelope resides inside the one or morechambers. The envelope may simply be a gap that forms between chambers,or an additional sheathed component that resides between a space thatforms between the chambers. The envelope preferably is shaped anddimensioned to enable introduction of the limb of the body. The envelopemay have various shapes, so as to enable a comfortable, yet snugintroduction of the limb. For example, if only one chamber is used, theenvelope preferably is integral in the central region of the onechamber; however, if multiple chambers are used, then the envelopepreferably comprises a gap that forms between the chambers. Such a gapenables the limb to be centrally located within the overall inflatableapparatus. In one exemplary embodiment, the limb is a hand that fitsinto the envelope up to the wrist. Upon inflation, the outer casing—orthe chambers if there is no outer casing—is stretched tightly over theinternally pressurized chambers so that the inflatable apparatus hasresiliency and liveliness for playing the paddle-type game.

In yet another embodiment, a system includes a resilient outer casingthat is durable and supports internal pressurization. The outer casingis sized and dimensioned to encapsulate one or more chambers. In oneembodiment, the outer casing is not substantially air impermeable, andthe one or more chambers provide the air barrier. The outer casing mayhave a rounded edge, a squared edge, a geometrically shaped edge, or anirregularly shaped edge; however, in other embodiments, there is noouter casing, whereby the chambers themselves form the exterior surfaceof the inflatable paddles.

The paddle-type game systems of the invention having the inflatableapparatus represent a unique twist on standard paddle-type games. Thepaddle-type games in which the inflatable apparatus are contemplated foruse include, without limitation, paddle ball, racquetball, tennis, aping-pong, and a light-weight, resilient plastic ball; however, in otherembodiments, additional sports and games that require striking an objectmay also utilize the inflatable apparatus. A user swings the region ofthe limb to which the inflatable apparatus is affixed for striking aball, and two players can repeatedly bounce a ball back and forthbetween themselves across a barrier, such as a net, using the inflatableapparatus.

As discussed above, the inflatable apparatus are detachably affixed toat least one region of the limbs on a human body. This can include thehand, the elbow, the foot, the knee, the arm, and the leg. Thus, usingthe inflatable apparatus various parts of the human body may be used tostrike a ball. In one non-limiting embodiment, a game may be playedwhere the player strikes the ball with the inflatable apparatus affixedto a hand or elbow.

If only one chamber is used, then the entire chamber preferablysurrounds the limb to which the inflatable apparatus is affixed. Ifthere are two or more chambers, then those chambers preferably surroundthe limb or at least are located between the interstitial space and thewalls defining the striking services. In an exemplary embodiment, twoequally sized chambers lie adjacent to each other on opposite sides of alimb of the player adjacent striking surface of the apparatus. Inembodiments, the chambers may have a rounded edge, a squared edge, ageometrically shaped edge, or an irregularly shaped edge. In otherembodiments, finger shapes or digits are defined by and extend fromedges of the chambers to provide a hand-like shape.

An envelope may reside inside the one or more chambers. The envelope canbe a sealed panel that is smooth and comfortable to the limbs, includingan additional sheathed component that resides between a space that formsbetween the chambers. In other embodiments, the envelope may simply be agap that forms between chambers. The envelope is shaped and dimensionedto enable introduction of the limb of the body.

The envelope may have various shapes, so as to enable a comfortable, yetsnug introduction of the limb. In one embodiment, the envelope has agenerally square or rectangular shape to accommodate a hand. In anotherembodiment, the envelope has a generally elongated shape to accommodatea shin of a leg. In another embodiment, the envelope has a generallyL-shaped or U-shaped configuration to accommodate a foot. In any case,the envelope and possibly even the chamber is shaped to correspond to aregion of the limbs.

In yet another embodiment, the inflatable apparatus includes a resilientouter casing that forms an outer seal to the chambers and the envelope.The outer casing, similar to the chambers, is durable and supportsinternal pressurization. The outer casing preferably is sized anddimensioned to encapsulate the one or more chambers. In one embodiment,the outer casing is not substantially air impermeable, and the one ormore chambers provide the air barrier.

Also, similar to the chambers, the outer casing \can have a roundededge, a squared edge, a geometrically shaped edge, or an irregularlyshaped edge; however, in other embodiments, there is no outer casing,whereby the chambers themselves form the exterior surface of theinflatable apparatus. Thus, if only one chamber is used, the envelope isintegral in the central region of the one chamber; however, if multiplechambers are used, the envelope may be substantially a gap, orlimb-shaped opening, that forms between adjacent chambers. Such a gapenables the limb to be centrally located within the overall inflatableapparatus.

In one exemplary embodiment, the limb is a hand that fits into theenvelope up to the wrist. Upon inflation, the outer casing is stretchedtightly over the internally pressurized chambers so that the inflatableapparatus has resiliency and liveliness for playing the racket-typegame. The hand swings in a forward or backward motion, such that thesurface of the chambers, or the outer casing, engages with the ball.Various types of paddle-styled games can be played with such aninflatable apparatus.

In one alternative embodiment, the chambers can be filled with a liquid,a gel, or an inert gas. The pressure can be regulated, similar to theair inflatable version. Furthermore, the liquid or gel filling can havea different effect on the ball when struck, since the tension andpressure of the inflatable apparatus will be different with differentfluids.

In conclusion, paddle-type of the invention utilize inflatable apparatusthat detachably affix to at least one region of the limbs on the bodyfor striking a ball during game play. The inflatable apparatus areshaped to enable the region of the limb to easily, yet securely, beintroduced therein. The inflatable apparatus have one or more chambersthat are in fluid communication with an inlet or port for inflation ofthe chambers. The chambers may or may not reside inside a resilientouter shell or casing. If used with an outer shell or casing, the outershell or casing may not be substantially air impermeable, but thechambers are and provide the air barrier. The chambers may have arounded edge, or other shape forming the outer edge. An envelope mayreside inside the chambers, with the envelope being shaped to enableintroduction of a limb. The envelope may have various shapes to enable acomfortable, yet snug introduction of the limb.

An example of another inflatable apparatus 90 is illustrated in FIGS.17-18. In particular, FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the inflatableapparatus 90 in which the opening is defined in one of two oppositelyfacing walls and not in a sidewall. FIG. 18 is a side elevational viewof the inflatable apparatus 90 affixed on the end of a leg.

Accordingly, while the invention has been described herein in detail inrelation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to be understoodthat this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the inventionand is made merely for the purpose of providing a full and enablingdisclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended tobe construed to limit the invention or otherwise exclude any such otherembodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications or equivalentarrangements, the invention being limited only by the claims appendedhereto and the equivalents thereof.

1. (canceled)
 2. An inflatable apparatus for striking an object whenaffixed to a limb of a body, comprising: (a) first and second oppositelyfacing walls, each wall defining a striking surface for striking andpropelling the object therefrom; and (b) one or more sidewalls extendingbetween and connecting the first and second oppositely facing walls,wherein the one or more sidewalls define an opening configured to permitpassage of the limb from an exterior of the apparatus into aninterstitial space of the apparatus for affixing the apparatus on thelimb; (c) wherein the inflatable apparatus comprises one or morefluid-impermeable, expandable chambers in fluid communication with oneor more ports whereby fluid introduced through the one or more portsenters into the one or more chambers for expanding the one or morechambers and tensioning the first and second walls defining the strikingsurfaces.
 3. An inflatable apparatus for striking an object when affixedto a limb of a body, comprising: (a) first and second oppositely facingwalls, each wall having an oval perimeter and defining a strikingsurface for striking and propelling the object therefrom; and (b) asingle sidewall extending between and connecting the first and secondoppositely facing walls, wherein the single sidewall defines an openingconfigured to permit passage of the limb from an exterior of theapparatus into an interstitial space of the apparatus for affixing theapparatus on the limb; (c) wherein the inflatable apparatus comprisesone or more fluid-impermeable, expandable chambers in fluidcommunication with one or more ports whereby fluid introduced throughthe one or more ports enters into the one or more chambers for expandingthe one or more chambers and tensioning the first and second wallsdefining the striking surfaces.
 4. (canceled)
 5. The inflatableapparatus of claim 3, wherein the first and second oppositely facingwalls have a circular perimeter.
 6. The inflatable apparatus of claim 3,wherein the first wall is defined by one or more walls of the one ormore chambers.
 7. (canceled)
 8. The inflatable apparatus of claim 3,wherein the one or more sidewalls are defined by one or more walls ofthe one or more chambers. 9-10. (canceled)
 11. The inflatable apparatusof claim 3, further comprising an envelope extending from the opening inthe one or more sidewalls into the interstitial space, the envelopebeing shaped and dimensioned to accommodate in a snug engagement thelimb of the body to which the apparatus is affixed.
 12. The inflatableapparatus of claim 3, wherein the one or more ports each has a cap orvalve.
 13. The inflatable apparatus of claim 3, further comprising astrap configured to extend across the opening for fastening theinflatable apparatus to a limb.
 14. The inflatable apparatus of claim 3,wherein the apparatus is configured to permit passage of the limbcompletely through the interstitial space back out to the exterior ofthe apparatus through another opening for affixing the apparatus on thelimb. 15-16. (canceled)
 17. A method for playing a game that includesstriking and propelling an object from an inflatable apparatus affixedto a limb of a body, the apparatus comprising first and secondoppositely facing walls, with the first wall defining a striking surfacefor striking and propelling the object therefrom, and one or moresidewalls extending between and connecting the first and secondoppositely facing walls, the method comprising: (a) inflating theapparatus by pumping a fluid through one or more ports that are in fluidcommunication with one or more fluid-impermeable, expandable chamberssuch that the fluid introduced through the one or more ports enters intothe one or more chambers causing the one or more chambers to expand andtension the first wall defining the striking surface; (b) inserting alimb into an opening defined by the one or more sidewalls into aninterstitial space of the apparatus to affix the apparatus on the limbin a snug engagement; and (c) propelling the object by moving the limbso as to forcibly strike the object with the striking surface of thefirst wall of the inflatable apparatus.
 18. The method of claim 17,further comprising propelling the object by moving the limb so as toforcibly strike the object with the second wall of the inflatableapparatus, the second wall defining a further striking surface and theexpanded chambers further tensioning the second wall.
 19. The method ofclaim 17, wherein the fluid comprises air.
 20. The method of claim 17,wherein the fluid comprises a liquid.
 21. The method of claim 17,wherein the fluid comprises water.
 22. The method of claim 17, whereinthe fluid comprises a gel. 23-29. (canceled)
 30. The method of claim 17,wherein the limb comprises a hand.
 31. The method of claim 17, whereinthe limb comprises an elbow.
 32. The method of claim 17, wherein thelimb comprises a foot.
 33. The method of claim 17, wherein the limbcomprises a knee. 34-35. (canceled)
 36. The method of claim 17, whereinthe limb comprises a shoulder.
 37. (canceled)